Ann Mitchell returning to EastEnders?

Ann Mitchell has reportedly been spotted filming with the 'EastEnders' cast, sparking speculation her character Cora Cross is set to return to Walford

Ann Mitchell is reportedly returning to 'EastEnders'.

The 77-year-old actress took on the role of Cora Cross on the long-running BBC soap in 2011, and after taking an extended break in April 2015, she is believed to be finally returning to Walford.

According to Digital Spy, Ann has been spotted filming with the cast recently, although nothing has been confirmed as of yet as 'EastEnders' bosses don't want to spoil plot lines for their viewers.

A spokesperson for the show told the publication: "We don't comment on storyline speculation as we don't want to spoil it for the viewers."

Cora Cross - who was the mother of characters Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner) and Rainie Cross (Tanya Franks), who have both since left the show - was last seen on the show in December 2015 when she was placed in sheltered accommodation outside of Walford, after the death of her partner Stan Carter (Timothy West) left her homeless.

Fans of the show have speculated about Cora's return to the Square ever since her departure, as the character was never given a proper exit, and since her two granddaughters Lauren and Abi Branning - played by Jacqueline Jossa and Lorna Fitzgerald respectively - still live in Walford, Cora has plenty of reason to come back.

Meanwhile, Ann isn't the only cast member to be gearing up for a comeback, as Danny Dyer - who recently took some well-deserved time off to be with his family - has recently held meetings with the 'EastEnders' bosses to discuss his return to the show.

A source said: "He dropped in to get his new scripts. He hasn't started filming just yet. But he is expected to return imminently.

"Everyone is looking forward to seeing him back in action. He's one of the soap's key stars."